The Brown Trading Co.

Design Seeds

2012-01-18T06:29:00.000+10:00

Have you discovered Design Seeds?

The wildly talented and creative Jessica from Design Seeds shares her love of colour and tracks and forecasts emerging colours and palette combinations through a modern interpretation of her original childhood colour journals. Clever beyond words!

You can search by colour value and by theme and it's super fun to play around on the interactive buttons. Jessica clearly demonstrates that inspiration can come from anywhere - food, locations, flora, fauna, seasons and ornaments, you name it she's used it.

Head over there for every type of colour inspiration from muted ice cream tones through to watercolours, frosted summer and vibrant neons. I promise you are going to love it.

I'm off to lose myself again for a few hours at Design Seeds. Pop on over there yourself and let me know what you think.

Have a colour filled day.

I will always love...books

2012-01-16T06:33:00.000+10:00

image via Bookshelf Porn

Since I was a little girl I have loved books, they are one of my greatest loves and passions. I couldn't imagine a life without books, I have them in just about every room. So it was interesting when I received a Kindle for Christmas from my Mum. I was thrilled, I hardly ever get surprises but this was a huge one. I really wondered how I would cope without the smell and feel of a book in my hand but I must say I am loving it and the whole Kindle experience has been great so far, it's convenient, compact, cheap and it's pretty fun to use.

Kindle via Amazon

Even with my new found Kindle love affair, nothing will ever replace a real book or real bookshelves for me. There is something about the turning of pages, the smell of the paper and print and the joy of holding the magic of the written word in my hands.

Just look at some of these fabulous bookshelves from around the world featured on Bookshelf Porn (don't you love the name?)

I want a room with a ladder. Via Bookshelf Porn

A bookshelf with a view? Yes please! via Bookshelf Porn

Love this eclectic bookshelf. Kate Spade Wedding Ideas via Bookshelf Porn

Proof that a beautiful bookshelf doesn't need to be big!

Sweet little bookshelf via Bookshelf Porn

A few years ago I purchased this wonderful book titled 'Books Do Furnish A Room' it's a visual feast of beautiful bookshelves.

Books Do Furnish A Room via Book Depository

And finally even if you don't have loads of space or live in a rental property and can't add shelves these Ideal Bookshelves by Jane Mount of Ideal Bookshelf are the perfect solution. Jane will customise your favourite bookshelves and paint them just for you! Aren't they fabulous?

Ideal Bookshelves the perfect space solution

So in my world you can't be without real books even if you do love the Kindle. How about you - do you love your Kindle? Are you still a 'real' book lover too? How do you display your books?

Until next time, have a colour filled day.

Retailer Spotlight - Rylo Interiors Brisbane

2012-01-13T05:41:00.000+10:00

Miss Macy 2 Seater Lounge - image via Rylo

Look what popped up at Rylo Interiors yesterday, it's our brand new Pink Cockatoo cushions! Looking rather smashing on the totally gorgeous Miss Macy 2 seater lounge - how pretty is she? Miss Macy is custom made in any fabric choice from Rylo's stunning fabric collections and is made locally in Brisbane.

image via Rylo Interiors

We humble Brisbane people are a rather stylish lot these days and Lauren Pearse from Rylo Interiors is no exception. After working in the industry for some of Brisbane's finest designers, Lauren has now created a delightful design space of her own at 985 Stanley Street, East Brisbane.

The gorgeous and talented Lauren Pearse of Rylo Interiors image via Rylo

image via Rylo Interiors

Lauren possesses experience in both residential and commercial applications and works with a wide range of clients offering assistance from full scale remodels to creating spaces combining beautiful aesthetics with function and form tailored to your style and taste.

An added bonus of Rylo is its proximity to one of Brisbane's yummiest cafes Egg Bistro. So grab yourself a delicious coffee and meander into Rylo for some stunning homewares, gifts and design and say 'Hi' to Lauren for me!

New Year, New Look, New Plans

2012-01-12T06:36:00.001+10:00

Katie Daisy

Well hello everyone and welcome to 2012 and our new look blog. It's been a while in the making but I think you will like it here.

We hope you had a fabulous Christmas and New Year. We certainly did and are all pumped up for a brilliant year ahead.

So many exciting things in the pipeline for us one of which is a major overhaul of our warehouse, office and showroom space. I will blog the process so you can see what's happening in our world. We are planning a new office space for little old me, a new photo studio, kitchen, client area and showroom - whew. The plans are currently in design stage and the process will begin next week, it will probably take us a few months as we will be preparing to exhibit again at Life in Style in about 5 weeks. It's all systems go here in Brown Town.

amazing offices of Macquarie Group London not sure ours will be this flash!

I'm currently looking at inspiring work spaces like these pretties.

Simple, pretty and sparkly office of Emily Schuman via Apartment Therapy

Colour burst via Moth Design

love this table (source unknown via Pinterest)

gorgeous art wall and workspace (sorry source unknown)

Office space of Rachel Zoe via Peep My Styles

Exciting times ahead. What's in store for you this year?

It's on again.....Our Fabulous Warehouse Sale!

2011-11-03T06:39:00.003+10:00

Our fabulous Warehouse Sale is on again!!! If you came last time in May you will know how brilliant the bargains were and if you didn't you need to get along to this one and find out :o)

The Brown Trading Co is joining forces with our friends Sharnel Dollar Designs, Apple & Bee, Little Branch, Ruby Olive, Little Maison and Jessie Lauren to bring you sensational prices on end of season stock, samples and discontinued lines.

On offer will be soft furnishings, homewares, jewellery, stationery, wrapping paper, prints, party goods, cake stands, cosmetic bags and more.

SATURDAY 26TH NOVEMBER

8.00am - 12.00pm

Unit 5, 623 Toohey Road

Salisbury

See you there, it's going to be fab!

Have a colour filled weekend!

2011-09-16T11:36:00.002+10:00

Here is my beautiful Humphrey - wishing you a colour filled weekend!

My Humphrey - the sunshine in my days! Photo taken this morning by me :o)

Guest Post: Arcadian Lighting - A Pop of Colour!

2011-09-15T09:40:00.000+10:00

Today's guest post is from Susi, a writer for Arcadian Lighting. Founded in 2002, Arcadian Lighting started selling decorative home light fixtures and lamps online, and has become one of the top Internet retailers for home lighting products. Visit their website and cool blog for more information. Enjoy.

Color adds so much to a room's design. Not only does a pop of color break up a neutral palette, bursts of contrasting (or complementary) colors create a dynamic tension that adds interest. Adding just a pop of color in an accessory, accent wall, textiles or area rug will change the look and feel of the room. Check out these chic examples of pops of color throughout the house.

Sandra Espinet via

Just a pop of color really brings this bedroom to life. Using the orange headboard as the jumping off point, orange trim adds a pop of color to the white linens.

DecorPad via

Another bedroom that uses pops of orange to liven up the space. This orange chair, with aqua painted legs, adds a burst of warm color in this cream and aqua bedroom.

Traditional Home via

A neutral palette of cream and pale green gets a pop of contrasting color in the form of red pillows. The red is even more striking against the green and white chevron stripe wingback chairs.

Real Simple via

Accessories are the perfect place for a pop of color. These Fu dogs pop in rich turquoise against the grey, black and white decor. The brilliant color catches the eye even with the stunning lamps and Venetian mirror vying for attention in the space.

Pinterest via

White and light neutrals in wall color and the sofa let the blue accent rug and occasional chairs pop in this room. The complementary yellow pillow really pops against the blue.

Pawley's Island Posh via

The trend in white kitchens sets the stage for colorful kitchen accessories to add pops of color. Tea towels, counter-top appliances and other accessories can add easy pops of color to a neutral kitchen.

Better Homes and Gardens via

A single piece of brightly painted furniture really pops in a neutral room. Painting a vanity red in the bathroom is unexpected but very stylish.

That's Chic via

Fresh flowers are a wonderful way to add a temporary pop of color to a room. Flowers are inexpensive and colorful and a great addition to any room. Love that unexpected light fixture of an ornate chandelier in the kitchen beyond. Even so, the flowers still hold the center of attention.

Content provided by Arcadian Lighting, a site that specializes in top quality lighting fixtures at extremely affordable prices. If you like this post, be sure to stop by the Arcadian Lighting blog and say hello!

Raine & Sage Giveaway!

2011-09-06T14:08:00.002+10:00

The gorgeous Sonia from Raine & Sage is having a little giveaway to celebrate her 1 year blog-a-ver-sary!

Luna Turquoise Cushion - image by Raine & Sage

Head on over to her beautiful blog and go in the draw to win one of our stunning Luna Turquoise cushions. If you win you will be one of the first in Australia to have your hands on this little pretty - they are only hitting stores this week.

Sonia is moving to Darwin soon, I shall miss her, she lives not far from our warehouse but I've made her promise that she has to open a beautiful homewares store up there in the north end and take some Brisbane style with her!

Elephant & Tiger

2011-09-03T05:51:00.001+10:00

Elephant & Tiger Savita Napkins and Tablelcoth
Styling and Images by Sharnel Dollar Designs

I have been missing in action again, so much happening behind the scenes at The Brown Trading Co. We exhibited at Life in Style trade fair in Melbourne last month which was a huge success and so much fun - we love trade fairs. Although they are so much work before, during and after we always have a brilliant time and love seeing our trade fair friends, catching up with our current customers and meeting new ones.

One of the things we have been busy with is design and production of our new hand block printed collection - Elephant & Tiger. We work with a village in Rajasthan in the north of India to produce our beautiful textiles and it's so encouraging to know that our business relationship enables the village to access better health and education facilities - this is what it's all about - helping others! Being an ex-teacher I find this relationship so rewarding on so many levels, it makes my heart sing working with these talented artisans.

Introducing our first two Elephant & Tiger designs in tablecloths, napkins and cushions - hitting stores in October!

Elephant & Tiger Maya Tablecloth and Napkins
Styling and Images by Sharnel Dollar Designs

Elephant & Tiger Maya & Savita Cushions in 50 x 50 and 60 x 40
Styling and Images by Sharnel Dollar Designs

A huge thank you to my beautiful (not to mention most talented) friend Sharnel Dollar of Sharnel Dollar Designs for not only lending me her stunning home again but for styling and actually shooting these images...you are the best BFF and I love travelling the fun road with you always.

We will be adding new designs and products to the Elephant & Tiger range over time - this is such an exciting launch for us.

Have a colour filled weekend!

Keren
xx

The Ship Song Project

2011-07-26T09:02:00.000+10:00

As a little girl I was always in awe of the Sydney Opera House and hoped that one day I would get to see it in real life. When I was in 11 my Mum gave me a Christmas Card with my gift that said 'Sydney here we come!' We stayed in an apartment for 2 weeks and every day I woke up the Opera House was glistening in the sunshine. I felt like I was in heaven and for me it might as well have been New York or London.

I've flown over many cities over the years but there really is nothing quite like flying over Sydney and the Opera House and her majestic sails. Every time I visit Sydney now I have a special spot that I visit right down on the harbour, it's almost like you are sitting on the water with the Harbour Bridge above to the left and the iconic Opera House to the right. It's my little history.

image via

Nick Cave's 'The Ship Song' has long been a powerful moving song that I have loved for many years. This morning I discovered 'The Ship Song Project' - 100 artists, 1 million tiles, 1 year in the making and it's a love song to The Opera House using Nick Cave's legendary music. You will be moved beyond words.

Performed by Neil Finn, Kev Carmody and The Australian Ballet, Sarah Blasko, John Bell, Angus and Julia Stone, Paul Kelly and Bangarra Dance Theatre, Teddy Tahu Rhodes and Opera Australia, Martha Wainwright, Katie Noonan and The Sydney Symphony, The Temper Trap, Daniel Johns and the Australian Chamber Orchestra.

I cannot get enough of this powerful moving ballad.

Make a little history...

Keren
xx

Shop Online With Us!

2011-07-20T15:48:00.000+10:00

Over the past few years we have had countless requests to open an online store where customers can access all of our designs in the one place. This is especially wonderful for our customers who don't live near or have access to any of our gorgeous retailers across Australia. So here it is. We can now ship Australia wide with a Flat Shipping Rate of $12.00.

Online retailing is actually where we began at the beginning of 2008 so for us this is a natural progression and we are excited to be offering this service.

Shop Online with The Brown Trading Co

The keren brown and Elephant & Tiger collections will be released at Life in Style in Melbourne next month. Both of our new collections are designed in Australia by us and produced in collaboration with traditional artisans in India. We hope you love them as much as we do - a little sneak peek tomorrow.

Shop and enjoy :o)

Keren
xx

Home Beautiful

2011-07-18T15:16:00.000+10:00

Several months ago the lovely Angela Steyn of Wicker & Stitch contacted me regarding writing an article about The Brown Trading Co for Home Beautiful Magazine. I was so thrilled! The August issue is out now and the article Angela wrote is wonderful (thank you so much Angela). The whole process was so much fun and every single person I came in contact with at Home Beautiful was just delightful. So here it is.....

Home Beautiful August Edition Cover

Home Beautiful Article written by Angela Steyn of Wicker & Stitch

What I am also loving about this issue is the purple cover! Like most little girls I loved pink and still do but I have always had a soft spot for purple too. It's a very under rated colour and I believe it should be given much more credit. Our Bungalow collection features some stunning purples in cushions and quilts.

Bungalow Dahlia Purple Quilt, Nalini Purple and Dahlia Purple Cushions

Clearly we are on to something with purple because even the gorgeous Kate Middleton was recently seen frocking up in Canada in purple!

Kate Middleton frocked up in purple Issa image via

And how fabulous is this chair in a rich purple velvet?

Love this chair! image via

And who doesn't love purple Hydrangeas?

image via

Here in Brisbane come November this is what we see, masses and masses, street upon street of perfectly pretty Jacaranda trees.

image unknown (sorry)

Think shades of amethyst, eggplant, plum, violet and wine. Purple is associated with luxury, royalty and spirituality and can boost imagination and creativity. I think it's high time purple was given some street cred. Thanks again Home Beautiful for the lovely article on us and the wonderful splash of purple.

Keren
xx

Rani Blue Quilts, Books and Friendship

2011-06-08T15:27:00.001+10:00

Rani Blue Queen Size Quilts

A few weeks ago we received a new shipment of our Bungalow Quilts. Some styles have sold out already! This one is my current favourite - Rani Blue queen size, I just love it and the reverse stripe is absolutely gorgeous. Our hand block printed quilts are so soft, perfect for snuggling up on a Winter's afternoon with a cup of tea and a great book.

Contact us for stockists www.thebrowntradingco.com.au

Speaking of great books, I received my copy of Holly Becker's divine book Decorate a few weeks ago. If you don't already have your copy you need to buy one, Holly's wonderful design book has even made it to the New York Times Bestseller list - what a star!

Decorate by Holly Becker. Neem Yellow Tea Towel

Sunshine print from the fabulous Annechovie

The 'Sunshine' quote print from Annechovie was given to me as a gift from my beautiful and amazing friend Amanda. It sits in my dining room and is a constant reminder of how precious our friendship is. It makes my heart sing.

Hope you are having a wonderful week.

Keren
xx

Est Magazine

2011-06-01T17:29:00.000+10:00

Est Magazine 1st Edition April 2011

Back in April a refreshing new online design magazine hit the inboxes of Australia and no doubt around the globe. Apart from the crisp, fresh cover featuring a stunning shady old tree, lush green grass and pops of red, it was their masthead that made me inhale and exhale with a sense of belonging 'Global Living With An Australian Twist' ' Welcome home to the heart of Australian style'. Instantly I felt like this magazine was calling my name.

Editor Sian Macpherson and her team have created a magazine worthy of global recognition featuring 'the best that global design has to offer with an Australian twist'. I loved every single page but highlights for me were the atelier of Danish artist Lisa Marie Frost, her darling studio (pictured below) is on my 'must have' list for my future home.

Studio perfection of Lisa Marie Frost image via Est magazine

Lisa Marie Frost in her studio. Image via Est magazine

The 'Style Nomad' article was another winner encouraging us to 'surround yourself with things that only make you feel good - not weigh you down' and a personal favourite quote from Sian 'collecting memories not just designer furniture'. I found myself dreaming and longing over the photography by Colin Doswell and styling by Deb McLean. This is a magazine to lose yourself in.

How fabulous are these giant scissors! Oh and I really want to eat those apples. Image via Est

What a cosy little nook. Image via Est

A nomadic gypsy caravan - how fun! Image via Est

All I can say is, I cannot wait for the next refreshing edition of Est Magazine. It's a winner from start to finish.

Keren
xx

If I owned a cafe...

2011-05-25T06:00:00.000+10:00

gorgeous store - source unknown via www.modernhepburn.tumblr.com

If I owned a cafe....I'm sure I would love it to look something like this. Warm and inviting yet filled with light. I'd have delicious pastries and cakes on display and baking in the kitchen, the aroma of coffee filling the air, an ever changing chalk board with menus and messages for my customers, antique timber counters, rustic wooden floors, a beautiful mix of old and new. I would have shelves stacked with magazines, newspapers and books for a quick news fix or a long relaxing read.

I would love to know where this store is, if anyone knows, please share?

Keren
xx

Oh Linda...

2011-05-18T13:59:00.000+10:00

Linda Evangelista circa 1991 by Steven Meisel

The 1990's when the world truly did have Super Models. I couldn't resist posting this image, it's perfection!

Keren
xx

Wrap yourself...

2011-05-12T08:43:00.000+10:00

Leaf Turquoise Quilt Queen and Single

When the icy winds hit there is nothing better than cocooning yourself inside and looking out to the crystal blue skies with a hot cup of tea, a fabulous book or magazine and wrapping yourself in one of our stunning hand block printed quilts. This season's must have to keep the chill at bay and the toes snuggly warm.

Available in Single and Queen sizes in a gorgeous variety of colours and designs, see our website for stockists and more designs www.thebrowntradingco.com.au.

India Yellow Queen Quilt 220 x 220 cm

Dahlia Purple Quilt Queen 220 x 220 cm

Leaf Rose Orange Quilt Queen and Single

What's your favourite thing to do when the weather is chilly?

Keren
xx

Slow Weekend

2011-04-17T17:12:00.001+10:00

Gorgeous artwork by the beautiful Anne Harwell of Annechovie

This weekend has been a blissful combination of slow life - resting, reading, cooking, sleeping, playing with the Humphrey and doing as little as possible and I've loved it.

I find a little Norah Jones playing in the background, a good book and a fragrant candle burning is so restorative. I adore candles, Glasshouse are one of my favourites and I have them burning a lot of the time when I'm home. One of my very few indulgences is a space in my cupboard filled with supplies ready to go when one has flickered out. The fragrances are divine, this one above is 'Caracas' other favourites are 'Amalfi Coast' 'Montego Bay' and 'Little Black Dress'.

Did you know that Glasshouse have a little sister offspring called Circa Home? Their home fragrances are just as delicious. The special thing about Circa Home is that each fragrance represents a particular year so far I've had 1962 Jasmine & Magnolia, 1972 Coconut & Orris Root and 1998 Mango & Papaya and each candle comes with a special story about it's inspiration. Like this one...

1972 is inspired by sizzling picnics on the beach, sandy sandwiches and buckets and spades. Reef oil and boogie boards. Never-ending road trips. Family holidays that make up the fabric of childhood memories.

Image via Circa Home Fragrances

I seem to be a collector of the beautiful and talented Anne Harwell's (Annechovie) artwork as well, my newest addition is the Suzani Settee pictured above which arrived on Thursday in the mail, when I opened it my heart skipped a beat, it's so pretty!

Hope your weekend has been as relaxing and rejuvenating as mine.

Keren

A Gorgeous Group Warehouse Sale!

2011-04-15T11:38:00.003+10:00

We've been busy these past few weeks organising a super Warehouse Sale with our friends at Verandah House, Sharnel Dollar Designs, Habitat Baby, Little Maison, Little Bubble and Tree, Ruby Olive, Apple & Bee and our other business The Cupcake Courier.

If you live in South East Queensland then you need to mark Saturday 7th May in your diary. Between 9.00am and 1.00pm CASH ONLY. Held in the carpark of our warehouse Unit 5, 623 Toohey Road, Salisbury.

Enormous savings on children's bed linen, gorgeous jewellery, stunning homewares and furniture, party ware, cake stands, children's kaftans, Jessie Steele aprons and accessories, The Cupcake Courier, Bungalow linen and much more. Everything from end of season, discontinued lines and sample stock - hugely discounted or at wholesale prices or below.

It's also the day before Mother's Day so still plenty of time to get a gorgeous gift for Mum at a brilliant price.

We can't wait to see you there!

Keren

Now Is the Time and It's Never Too Late

2011-04-10T17:11:00.000+10:00

It's Never Too Late and Now Is the Time by Patrick Lindsay purchased from Hamptons Home Living

Here are the two gorgeous little books I accidentally purchased on my visit to Hamptons Home Living last week to deliver extra stock. It was the playful simplistic dust jackets of It's Never Too Late...174 simple acts to change your life and Now Is the Time...170 ways to seize the moment both by Patrick Lindsay that whispered 'you must buy me'.

Now Is the Time and It's Never Too Late by Patrick Lindsay

They are both filled with 'morsels of insight' and inspiring quotes. I love the fact that you can open them at any page and be uplifted and encouraged by beautiful words reminding us to celebrate elegance, use your talents, let yourself dream, ask for help, prove them wrong, listen to your body, to break away from the herd, to smell the country air and on the flipside to that one for those of us who are city dwellers like me, embrace the traffic! This one might be a challenge but I'm willing to give it a go - I'll let you know how my embracing of traffic progresses.

PS. Photographed on the samples of our new Hamilton Aqua fabric which will be available in cushions, fabric and bedlinen! Currently in production and coming very soon :o)

Hope your weekend has been a wonderful one.

Keren
xx

Hamptons Home Living = I'm moving in

2011-04-06T19:49:00.004+10:00

The 'Living Room' at Hamptons Home Living - I'm ready to move in.

Step inside the glossy black trimmed doorway of the gorgeous new Hamptons Home Living on Latrobe Terrace at Paddington in Brisbane and guaranteed you will never want to leave. The divine new store is like walking into a warm, cosy home with distinct living, dining and bedroom areas featuring the finest furniture, linens, tableware, homewares, lighting, books and decorative pieces.

Gorgeousness as far as the eye can see.

Super stylish and gorgeous owner Tania Bailey and her award winning restaurateur husband Luke Stringer have created something truly special in the Brisbane homewares and cafe scene. If the food at the opening night on Monday is any indication of what's to come when the cafe is fully functioning in the next few weeks, then you are in for a sublime experience. I could seriously taste the ocean in the Oysters! The cafe is currently open for superior coffee and delicious sweet delicacies and will be open for Breakfast and Lunch in the next few weeks.

Luke and Tania are amazing hosts and it was a wonderful evening of laughter spent with some fabulous friends including Judy from Verandah House, Carla from Habitat Baby and I was so thrilled to finally meet the delightfully talented Kerri from Driftwood Interiors.

Look, the locals have already discovered this little treasure!
The cafe is toward the back and the view from the verandah is beautiful, serene and feels like you are far from the city hustle and bustle.

I popped back into my new favourite haunt this morning to drop off some more 'emergency supplies' aka stock because it's been flying off the shelves and well I had to stop and have a coffee and a to die for chocolate biscuit based cheesecake with my friend Carla from Habitat Baby. Oh and I did manage to accidentally purchase a couple of adorable books - charged to the business of course - necessary for well...ME. I will show you them tomorrow - too dark for photos tonight.

Tea on the back balcony - bliss.

I almost had to be peeled from the front doorway and I believe I was heard saying 'don't make me leave' as I was heading back to the office this morning. My visit to Hamptons Home Living kept me uplifted and smiling all day, this is a place to lose yourself, rejuvenate, relax and you will truly feel like it is your home.

Do yourself a favour and meander up to 180 Latrobe Terrace asap and say hi to Tania and Luke, they will welcome you with open arms. Maybe I'll see you there!

Keren

A broken ankle and a new collection!

2011-04-04T11:45:00.001+10:00

Hello again everyone

I've been missing in action for quite some time, almost 4 months...

New 'keren brown' Cockatoo - Pink (also available in aqua, and green)

I had my 2nd severe bone break in 6 months - the first one was in May and was my wrist. On the 15th December I managed to slip over while trying to shut the front door from a storm and smashed my ankle and dislocated it in 3 places - 4 days in hospital, 2 plates, 10 screws and a rod in my leg, no Christmas to speak of, no birthday celebration either, 11 weeks in a wheelchair, 2 surgeries, months of physiotherapy which is continuing and I'm starting to feel like a normal person again and beginning to hobble.

Who would have thought a broken ankle could be so very debilitating? Let me assure you...it is dreadful! We did however manage to get ourselves to the Trade Fair in Sydney in February (in said wheelchair) which was a marathon effort but we did it :o)

At the fair we launched our new 'keren brown' collection of cushions, fabric by the metre and bed linen. I was just so excited and relieved to actually get there as there were many times over the months when I truly didn't think we would make it.

The response to our new collection was truly wonderful and overwhelming.

Here is a sneak peek of rest of the collection due to hit the shores in August (fingers crossed).

Avalon - Green (also available in pink, aqua)

Hamilton - Aqua (also available in pink, green)

So good to be back and feeling like I want to blog again!

Keren
xx

A simple 'thank you' to Emma

2010-12-14T10:32:00.000+10:00

Most days I go through the motions of life in general without sparing a thought for how our work might impact upon someone else. One of my dearest friends since childhood is a heart lung transplant specialist, so to me, he is a hero, he changes and saves lives on a daily basis, breathing new life into people who almost have none. I simply design and sell textiles, never thinking that perhaps it might bring joy to someone who is suffering.

However I was tilted off my busy bee insane Christmas work axis yesterday by a simple 'thank you' email from a customer, Emma, who indicated to me she is ill and spends a considerable amount of time in one room and therefore wants that room to be filled with beauty and uplifting things. She thanked me for helping her find what she needed to create her masterpiece, I was a little overcome with emotion to say the least.

She purchased some of our Leaf Rose Orange tablecloths through one of our fabulous retailers Nest Emporium a few months ago and what she did with them is beyond amazing!

Wardrobe Doors closeup - look at the precision of those upholstery nails!

Wardrobe drawers - loving the little silver melon knobs!

Incredible...all done by hand

We are sending Emma a little Christmas surprise! Thank you for making us feel that somehow in some small way what we do might make a little difference and bring joy to the soul, even just a smidge.

Keren

Limelight - 'Gewurzhaus'

2010-12-09T11:13:00.000+10:00

Gewurzhaus (meaning spice house in German) is an Aladdin's Cave of herbs and spices located in the style and food mecca of Lygon Street, Carlton. Sisters Eva and Maria Konecsny are so much more than sugar, spice and all things nice. This duo have some serious business brains and a unique concept store that will go far. The first Gewurzhaus opened a mere 6 months ago and the next store opening is underway for early 2011 at another Melbourne location.

The gorgeous Maria (left) and Eva (right) sporting our Jessie Steele Aprons (image via Gewurzhaus)
I want one of those shop counters and their shoes!

Stocking a comprehensive A-Z of herbs, spices, salts and sugars, Gewurzhaus also stocks over 100 unique blends which are ground on site from fresh whole ingredients. With over 300 different products in the shop there is seriously something for every taste.

French Lavender Salt - are you serious - how good does that sound?

Chocolate Ginger Sugar - oh my my!!

I did a little online shopping yesterday in their new online store and well...I just had to go back for a second round shop this morning purchasing everything from Salt & Pepper Squid blend to Vanilla Bean Sugar and Chocolate Spice. For those of us who are a little unsure of how to use all these delicious delicacies, Eva & Maria have made it simple by posting downloadable recipes on the website. Fabulous idea!

It gets better, when visiting the store you can select from the beautiful prepackaged items or 'self-scoop' which according to the girls is a great way to sample a new spice, you get to lift the lid, breathe in the aroma and see the product before scooping your desired quantity into a specially crafted and labelled spice bag.

Think lolly shop for big kids!

Bags of fresh spices.

Gewurzhaus Shop Front - Lygon Street, Carlton.

I think there could be room for a bed in there! (images via Gewurzhaus)

A little tip - expect to see these fabulous sisters and their little spice shop popping up all over the place.

A little suggestion for Eva & Maria - set up shop here in Brisbane and you will have the Queensland culinary world knocking the door down!

Keren

It's all about colour

2010-11-25T06:22:00.000+10:00

a marvellous quote from Bright Bazaar

I've never been a beige person except in very small doses, I don't really know why but I've always been drawn to colour and as everyone who knows me will attest I'm a huge fan of red, it's probably the colour that represents me. Although after doing Shannon Fricke's brilliant Colour Workshop last weekend, I really need to rethink my use of red around the house!

The Little Cottage - this divine turquoise door had us in rapture. Image via Shannon Fricke

Shannon relayed this wonderful story about her daughter's bedroom when it was painted raspberry red and how the colour affected her daughter's behaviour and mood and she was constantly switched on 'high'. It's quite amazing how colour can affect our mood. When Shannon changed the colour scheme and used muted tones of green and blue - voila - a much more contented and relaxed child - amazing!

gorgeous muted tones of green in Shannon's Workshop. image via Shannon Fricke

For many years it seems that the design and decorating world has been awash with....well beige. While I can see it's attraction, safe, unassuming, blends with everything and it really can look beautiful and sophisticated, I felt a bit out of step because it just isn't me, it feels too conservative. I can't help it, I love colour, always have always will.

I caught up for a coffee earlier this week with two super talented and stylish friends, Judy from Verandah House and Australia's answer to Martha Stewart Sharnel Dollar and we all agree - ditch the dowdy and embrace colour!

I can't drool over Judy's collection enough - it's stunning. via Verandah House

Sharnel's vintage bauble Christmas wreath, she adds new glass baubles each year. A few weeks before Christmas last year, I arrived home one day and on my door step was my very own Christmas wreath Sharnel had made for me as a surprise. I just burst out laughing because I used to say to her 'I want one of those' and ta-da there it was! image via My Life My Loves

I'm not sure if colour was ever 'out of fashion' but it's definitely at the top of the design tree this Christmas. I love the little tag line of Bright Bazaar 'because beige is boring'. I don't think we all need to rush out and throw colour around like a mad man (maybe just a little bit) but add a dash here and there and your spirits will be uplifted guaranteed. Colour = Happiness.

how fun is this Chrismas corner? via Bright Bazaar

Shannon's workshop was beyond amazing and I met some incredibly talented and wonderful ladies and we had oh so many laughs. Not only is Shannon brilliant but she is such a genuinely warm, welcoming and lovely person, I felt like we had met years ago. Her wonderful assistant Nicky is just as delightful and the lunch she served was divine. Bangalow is truly a beautiful escape from the city, it also helps that The Little Cottage is a magical space encouraging magical creativity!

Keren
xx

Colour Splash

2010-11-18T06:26:00.001+10:00

Shannon's Book STYLE is one of my favourites

I've been a little busy this past week, trying to get organised to allow myself time to head off to beautiful Bangalow for the Shannon Fricke Color Workshop. I've been so excited about this little weekend for months. Shannon is an incredibly talented author, stylist, television presenter and mother. Her sense of style and decorating approach is refreshing and eclectic.

I am staying at Shannon's guesthouse 'The Little Cottage' which looks positively delightful and oh so restful.

The Little Cottage - Bangalow

Fresh country air and inspirational design, sounds like a perfect way to spend a few days.

Keren
xx

all images via Shannon Fricke

The Glamourous

2010-11-11T05:49:00.003+10:00

It's not all glamourous here in the world of The Brown Trading Co. Sometimes one must get down and dirty and this week is the week. Stock has arrived, mountains of it, so the worker bees (that would include me) must don their stylish best, designer stanley knives in hand, unpack and count all the stock and then....fill our orders for our magnificent retailers!!

The things we do for gorgeousness...

required designer footwear for worker bees

Using stylish Stanley Knives on this lot, much more where these came from!

Keren
xx

'Limelight' - Lily-G

2010-11-05T08:32:00.001+10:00

Beauiful Fabrics (via Lily-G)

Just off a round-about tucked away in leafy Norman Park, Brisbane is beautiful lifestyle boutique Lily-G. Founded 6 years ago by the extraordinarily talented Judy Elliott now of Verandah House, Lily-G was sold earlier this year to new proprietor Melinda Boundy who has since brought her own flair to the gorgeous landmark store.

Inside Lily-G (image via Lily-G)

Melinda and her team offer a full design service from concept to installation. A stunning range of fabrics and wallpapers from Ralph Lauren, Osborne & Little, Nina Campbell and Designers Guild are on offer along with an array of exquisite homewares and gifts.

Bungalow Neem Red Napkins (image via Lily-G)

Butterflies and Birds (image via Lily-G)

In the years since opening, Lily-G has established itself as a leader in the Brisbane market and is renowned for providing clients with a luxurious yet relaxed style indicative of homes in France and The Hamptons.

Maileg Elves (image via Lily-G)

Next time you head down Bennetts Road way, be sure to stop by and visit Melinda and the team at Lily-G. Make sure you grab one of these adorble Christmas Elves to help you through the silly season!

Have a gorgeous weekend.

Keren
xx

The King's Road SW3

2010-11-03T13:19:00.002+10:00

The King's Road, has launched many a brilliant career including those of 60's fashion icon Mary Quant and the original punk queen Vivienne Westwood.

Mary Quant 1963

Vivienne Westwood 1977

Granny Takes a Trip store circa 1960

Located in upmarket Chelsea, The King's Road covers just over 3kms from Sloane Square to Waterford Road and has long been recognised as London's mecca for the bohemian and style trailblazers.

Back in the 90's I lived just off The King's Road, in a fabulously stylish flat owned by Minnie Driver's mother Gaynor Churchward (uber style queen) who lived in the flat upstairs. Gaynor was an interior designer and her store Sussex House was on the ground floor and was a treasure trove of fabrics, cushions, curtains and trimmings.

Minnie Driver (image via abc.net.au)

I not only lived in the area but I worked here for a while too and spent most of my lunch hours wandering through all the beautiful stores I'd never seen in Australia. Shopping here on a Saturday was an unbelievable experience and we frequented My Old Dutch, Henry J Beans, Chutney Mary and The Chelsea Bun, not exactly Michelin star establishments but they all fell within the backpacking budget constraints and kept us fed and watered for well over a year.

It's where I first discovered the mind blowingly gorgeous world of Designers Guild, the visionary Habitat 'shopping as entertainment' concept brought to life by Terence Conran in 1964 and I was even present at the opening of Heal's Chelsea store.

design revolutionary Sir Terence Conran (image via mydeco)

Designer's Guild colour heaven

part of Designers Guild shopfront

Other fabulous stores along the famous stretch are Anthropologie, The White Company, Cath Kidston and newcomer to the area Oka who recently launched their flagship store.

Anthropologie (image via Grey Lemon)

Want to take a your own little swan down one of my favourite streets? Head here The Kings Road for a virtual 'street sensation' of one of the most wonderful high street shopping experiences in the world.

There is so much brilliance to discover at The King's Road and it will always hold a special place in my heart. If you have never been, it's a must! If you have been, share your stories...

Keren

Limelight - Ada & Darcy

2010-10-29T14:11:00.004+10:00

Ada & Darcy full of delicious sorbet colours

First off the rank in our weekly 'Limelight' post is one of our newest retailers Ada & Darcy. Just because Kellie's store is new doesn't mean she doesn't know what she's doing, a long time blogger, this girl has style in spades. Ada & Darcy features splashes of colour, fashion forward designs, premium products and most importantly the prices won't melt the credit card (it's what I call affordable gorgeousness).

Lamp bases, vases, lampshades, ginger jars, birds..bliss

Far from being your average online retailer, Ada & Darcy is a little bit quirky (I love quirky) stocking delightful candy coloured cane furniture, cushions, bedding, tableware and giftware. This is a website that truly stands out from the crowd.

I think this should be hung on a wall!

instant (((love)))

If you're feeling a little unsure how to pull off using so much colour and pattern, Ada & Darcy offers a full design service regardless of your location. Does it get any better than that?

lampshade goodness

My advice - head straight for the lampshades section, it's ridiculously beautiful. Congratulations Kellie, you have produced a stellar store.

Keren
xx

The coast and the catch

2010-10-28T12:48:00.002+10:00

featuring Shacks of every kind - shelter, business, ruins, beach, lakeside...

I couldn't help but borrow that title line from a gorgeous little book I discovered yesterday Shack in praise of an Australian icon by Simon Griffiths (Penguin Lantern $39.99). According to Simon, shacks make people happy. It's all about enjoying the coast and the catch. The shack's a place you can hose out at the end of summer, lock, leave and not worry about. Sounds perfect!

Simon's publication pedigree is rather envious, he is a leading photographer of food, interiors and gardens. His work appears regularly in lifestyle magazines and in the books of Australian cooking royalty Stephanie Alexander and Kylie Kwong.

my favourite - a converted boatshed outside Melbourne

set in coastal scrub - Mornington Peninsula

a converted cowshed - how positively perfect!

This book is a gem featuring quirky, rustic, shabby and renovated 'shacks' from faraway places to inner city dwellings connecting us to our 'common desire for retreat and renewal'.

The Great Lakes Tasmania is a haven for shacks

Stunning photography transports you to various reaches of Australia from country to coast, however there are many beautifully constructed sentences that make you close your eyes and dream of a simpler life.

A lazy afternoon spent with a cup of tea and this book is hard to beat. My advice - put it on your Christmas list!

Keren xx

Welcome to our world of gorgeousness!

2010-10-27T06:47:00.000+10:00

Stocked in 120 stunning homewares, interiors and design stores Australia wide and growing, we are busily preparing for the Christmas season with our warehouse of elves singing and dancing - visualise Oompa Loompas in the chocolate factory and you get the general idea!

Each week we will feature one of our fabulous retailers providing a snapshot into their beautiful stores and what they have to offer. Trust us, it's worth it, our retailers are brilliant and talented :o)

Our blog and facebook pages will feature snippets of our world, product highlights, sneak peeks into our new collection designs, our favourite things and other bloggers along with some fun giveaways. Because we want this to be interactive we are also going to invite you to join in and share your ideas of gorgeousness - homewares, interiors and design or anything that takes your fancy, we want to hear about it. We want to learn about our customers and find out what makes them tick and what they most desire in design.

Head on over to our facebook page and 'like' us for your chance to win some divine Bungalow products.

Grab a cushion and enjoy the ride...it's going to be gorgeous.